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Lexus · Mid-Size · 2014–2020

Lexus IS XE30

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Lexus IS XE30 is available with 2 engine variants — from 238 to 316 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

IS 300 · Petrol· 245–258 PS Engine Change
2014 2020
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2016 2020
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
IS 350 · Petrol· 311 PS
2014 2020
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Lexus IS 300 (Petrol, 245–258 PS) comes with 2 different engines: 2GR-FSE (2014–2020, Be Careful) und 8AR-FTS (2016–2020, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the IS 300!

The Lexus IS 350 (Petrol, 311 PS) has the 2GR-FSE (3.5L V6 D4-S) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
●Infotainment Touchpad Frustration

Lexus Remote Touch touchpad interface is difficult to use while driving. Cursor control is imprecise. Design limitation present across all XE30 IS models. No technical fix — muscle memory or aftermarket replacement are the options.

Symptoms: Difficult menu navigation, cursor overshooting, distraction while driving
Ad touchpad controller Lexus IS XE30infotainment module IS 350
 Low
●Infotainment System Crash — Black Screen

Screen goes black and reboots, often after faulty OTA update. Navigation and climate controls inaccessible.

Symptoms: Screen stays black, system reboots while driving, navigation unavailable
Ad head unit Lexus IS XE30infotainment control unit IS 350
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Above Average
1 complaints · 2014–2020
Airbags
1
Body Structure
1
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
1
Wipers & Visibility
1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Airbags (1 complaints)
⚠ Body Structure (1 complaints)
⚠ Electronic Stability Control (Esc) (1 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 14 weaknesses have been documented for the Lexus IS XE30 (2014–2020) — 8 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Electronics, Suspension, HVAC, Brakes.

IS (2GR-FSE, 2014–2020) — Be Careful: Cylinder Bore Scuffing, VVT-i Oil Line Failure (Recall Campaign), Valve Spring Defect (Recall). Power: 258 PS.

IS (2GR-FSE, 2014–2020) — Be Careful: Cylinder Bore Scuffing, VVT-i Oil Line Failure (Recall Campaign), Valve Spring Defect (Recall). Power: 311 PS.

IS (8AR-FTS, 2016–2020) — Be Careful: Premature Water Pump Failure, Timing Chain Jump / Failure, Turbo Wastegate Valve Malfunction. Power: 245 PS.

What to watch out for with the Lexus IS? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Lexus IS XE30 have? +
The Lexus IS XE30 has 8 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Lexus IS XE30? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: 2GR-FSE (3.5L V6 D4-S), 8AR-FTS (2.0L Turbo). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the 2GR-FSE (3.5L V6 D4-S).
Which Lexus IS XE30 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Lexus IS XE30 — rated: "Decent". {description} The IS 300 AWD uses the 2GR-FSE V6 detuned to 260 hp. AWD adds winter traction at the cost of weight and fuel economy. The V6 is proven and reliable. A solid all-season sport sedan for northern climates.
Is the Lexus IS XE30 worth buying used? +
The Lexus IS XE30 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Lexus IS XE30? +
The Lexus IS XE30 is available with engine variants from 238 to 316 hp. Petrol: 2GR-FSE (3.5L V6 D4-S), 8AR-FTS (2.0L Turbo).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee